ASSISTANT PROFESSOR (HEAD OF SCIENCE OPERATIONS) FOR SUBARU TELESCOPE, NATIONAL ASTRONOMICAL OBSERVATORY OF JAPAN (NAOJ)
Subaru Telescope, NAOJ operates the Subaru telescope, an optical-infrared telescope at the 4,200 m (13,460ft.) summit of Mauna Kea on the island of Hawaii, for open use observations, and is also active in the research and development for its future systems. In addition, Subaru Telescope is supporting Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) project, which would be the next large project at NAOJ. We are seeking an assistant professor who will play a central role in a) ensuring smooth and safe science operation of Subaru Telescope for open use observations; b) mapping the scientific roles of Subaru Telescope in the future TMT era; c) maintaining high levels of scientific outputs. See below for the duties, responsibilities and qualification of the position.
1. Summary of Duties and Responsibilities: The primary duties and responsibilities of this position focus on management of the smooth and safe science operation of the telescope to maximize scientific output from its open-use observations. They include playing a major role in the TMT’s future operation. They entail the following specific duties:
- As Head of Science Operations under the Assistant Director of Operations at Subaru Telescope, lead the scientific operations of the telescope and work closely with the Head of Engineering.
- Play a central role in the discussion and identification of scientific priorities at Subaru Telescope, while taking into account the key instrumentations in the next decade, such as Hyper Suprime-Cam (HSC); ensure continuity in the optimum scientific operation of the telescope in a way that leads to synergy with the TMT Project; closely coordinate activities with the Subaru Principal Scientist.
- Actively participate in planning the operation of the TMT and play a central role in implementing this plan in the future.
In addition to these duties and responsibilities, the Assistant Professor will work the day-to-day operation of the telescope system and actively engage in his/her own research activities by using the Subaru Telescope.
2. Qualifications: The applicant must have demonstrated experience and knowledge in the areas of telescope and/or instrumentation development and/or operation. This background may include expertise with space telescopes and large experimental facilities as well as ground-based telescopes. The applicant also needs to have leadership skills in a multicultural work environment. These skills include the ability to interact and communicate effectively not only with engineering staff hired locally/internationally but also with those from Japan.
More information, including how to apply for the position, is available at http://www.subarutelescope.org/Announce/2013/01/16/index.html. More information on the Subaru telescope is also available at http://www.subarutelescope.org
3. Compensation: The salary for the position depends upon the applicant’s experience and qualifications. NAOJ policies determine employee benefits, including relocation costs and support.
